Misery #1
Illustrated by: Szymon Kudranski
Cover Art by: Don Aguillo
Written by: Todd McFarlane
Release date: June 19th, 2024
Image Comics
*Minor Spoilers Ahead
Cyan Fitzgerald is just a young woman trying to find her place in the world. As the daughter of Wanda Fitzgerald, the former wife of Al Simmons (aka Spawn), she has been endowed with incredible abilities—abilities that keep her cut off from those around her. Her journey into the darkness starts here.
In the realm of comic books, where heroes and anti-heroes grapple with the forces of good and evil, “Misery #1” emerges as a narrative that delves into the complexities of legacy and identity. Illustrated by Szymon Kudranski, with cover art by Don Aguillo, and penned by Todd McFarlane, this Image Comics release invites readers into the world of Cyan Fitzgerald.
Cyan, the progeny of Wanda Fitzgerald and the enigmatic Al Simmons, better known as Spawn, is a character who embodies the struggle of reconciling a normal life with the weight of extraordinary powers. These powers, while a boon, also serve as a barrier, isolating her from the world she yearns to connect with. Her tale is one of introspection and conflict, a dance with darkness that begins with this very issue.
The artwork of Kudranski is a notable aspect of this series, as some of you may already know his work from “Sam and Twitch: Case Files” which came out in March. His dedication over half a decade is evident in the detailed and atmospheric panels that convey Cyan’s internal and external battles. The choice to keep the connection to Spawn subtle, especially on the cover crafted by Aguillo, is an intriguing one. It speaks to a desire to let “Misery” stand on its own, to allow Cyan’s story to unfold without overt ties to the legacy of Spawn, despite her direct connection to the universe.
This approach to marketing might seem unconventional to some, as it doesn’t leverage the established fan base of Spawn to its fullest. However, it could also be viewed as a confident statement of the series’ merit, suggesting that the story of Cyan Fitzgerald can captivate readers without leaning on her father’s fame.
“Misery #1” is a comic that doesn’t shout for attention but rather whispers, inviting the curious to step closer and immerse themselves in its depths. It’s a narrative that promises a journey through shadows, one that may resonate with those who understand the solitude that comes with being different.
As Cyan Fitzgerald steps out of the pages of “Spawn #275” and into her own series, readers are offered a chance to explore what it means to be powerful yet disconnected, to be a beacon in the dark yet alone. It’s a story that may not have garnered widespread chatter, but for those who venture into its pages, it offers a unique perspective on the superhero genre.
“Misery #1” may not redefine comic book storytelling, but it certainly adds a layer to the tapestry of narratives that Image Comics has woven over the years. It’s a piece that will likely find its audience, those looking for a nuanced exploration of character and the dichotomy of power and isolation. For those readers, Cyan’s journey may just be the path worth walking.
“Misery #1” is available on our weekly new comic book wall and can also be placed on your pull list.
Exploring the Shadows of Misery
Colors - 8.5
Design - 9
Illustration - 9
Narrative - 9.8
Subplot - 9.6
9.2
Dive into the enigmatic world of Cyan Fitzgerald, a character born from the legacy of Spawn, as she embarks on a dark and introspective journey in 'Misery #1'.